Complex PTSD is termed as complex post-traumatic stress disorder. It is often observed in children who experienced abuse or witnessed violence during their childhood years. Many children may have parents who are addicted or some may have mental illness too. The family conditions are not limited to this.
Neglect and abandonment may also take part in a period of childhood. All these conditions later prove to be very difficult in managing emotion and life patterns in adulthood.
One may have difficulty regulating emotions. Complex PTSD is a condition that requires help from a professional.
We will talk more about how it can be treated and how people suffering from this can get relief. Many transformative changes can occur under the guidance of good supervision.
What kinds of things can cause complex PTSD?
Many events can cause complex post-traumatic stress disorder. The main causes of complex PTSD are shared as follows-
- Long-term child abuse.
- Long-term sexual abuse.
- Witnessing physical violence for a long time in childhood.
- A victim of human trafficking.
- Constant fights and arguments among parents.
- Struggled in a war.
- Losing the primary attachment figure or caregivers.
- Community violence
All these things can cause complex PTSD to occur which can turn into various difficulties. One may feel alienated and disconnected from the world. It is not only limited to childhood. Young people who may go through any chronic traumatic event may also suffer from this.
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How to identify the symptoms of complex post-traumatic stress disorder?
The symptoms that are related to complex post-traumatic stress disorder are shared in this section. An individual suffering from complex post-traumatic stress disorder may have these symptoms-
- The feeling of guilt.
- Constantly avoiding the trauma triggers.
- Flashbacks of the trauma.
- Difficulty in maintaining intimate relationships.
- Lower self-esteem.
- The feeling of not being loved.
- A constant feeling of helplessness or not being heard.
- Unexplained physical ailments.
- One pays extra attention to the fear of upcoming dangers.
- Difficulty sharing emotions or opening up.
All these are some major symptoms that one may have while suffering from complex post-traumatic stress disorder.
Can complex post-traumatic stress disorder be diagnosed?
The identification or diagnosis of complex PTSD can be done based on a few things. The things are shared as follows-
- Healthcare providers may note the symptoms.
- One may be asked about the medical history.
- One may be checked on the mental health status.
- One may be asked to open up about the event that caused trauma.
Although PTSD may get mixed up with C PTSD, it is good to
Therapies for C PTSD.
Specific therapies are linked to Complex post-traumatic stress disorder. It is proven that the body is highly associated with trauma. The trauma can cause possible changes in the physiology of the brain and the body may also undergo some possible physiological changes that may cause ailments. The association of trauma with the body is checked and the healing is done.
The therapies that are related to Complex post-traumatic stress disorder are shared flows-
- Trauma-focused Cognitive behavioral therapy- In this therapy, the therapist checks thought patterns and provides a safe environment for self-expression.
This therapy helps in bringing changes in the thought patterns and behaviors associated with them.
- EMDR- This therapy reduces the intensity of traumatic events. The therapist may ask you to listen to a few sounds and recall the event. Over time, it makes the event less effective. Desensitization happens during this process.
- Cognitive processing therapy- This therapy helps by finding out the emotions that are related to events. The process helps in the healing of traumatic events.
Therapists may use many eclectic approaches along with therapies for the betterment of individuals. Relaxation techniques are performed and one may ask to follow the techniques. All these ways help to overcome the negative impacts of trauma.
What are the major benefits of getting therapy for complex PTSD?
There are many benefits of getting therapy for complex post-traumatic stress disorder and the benefits are as follows-
- One may get an overall experience on the regulation of emotions.
- You can reduce the recurrences of triggering events by working on them.
- A good and safe environment can help in releasing trapped emotions.
- Behavioral changes may occur under the guidance of a good therapist.
- It can help in good interpersonal relationships.
- One may become more expressive.
All these things can be achieved by getting good therapy. One should note the symptoms associated with it and one may talk to a good psychologist or therapist.
Things that can help in dealing with complex post-traumatic stress disorder.
Everyone needs to prioritise themselves and the needs associated with them and one should take full control of the ongoing events. It may sound difficult but one should try taking care of themselves by following tense things-
- Try labeling your emotions and try to find out the possible answers to your emotional outbursts.
- Know that it’s okay to have rest and to feel that something ain’t right within them.
- Appreciate your feelings of your even if they are related to sadness.
- Share your feelings with a loved one and tell them how you feel.
- Do not get hard on yourself.
- Give yourself proper time and attention.
- Know that the things occurred in the past and try to figure out the ways that can
- Reduce the impact of your past on the present.
- Join a group that shares similar interests to yours.
- Get yourself into professional guidance.
- Make exercise your daily routine.
By following all these self-help tips and with the help of guidance one can overcome the impacts of trauma on ongoing life. It takes courage to take a step in getting aware of your emotions and one should begin the journey of healing for the betterment of one’s self.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Complex PTSD in children, often caused by long-term trauma such as abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence, can deeply impact emotional and social development. As children grow, these unresolved traumas can lead to difficulties in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and feeling secure. However, with the right support, including trauma-focused therapies, children can begin to heal, build confidence, and develop resilience. Early intervention is key. If your child is struggling with past trauma, seeking professional help can guide them toward a brighter, healthier future. Don’t wait—help is available.